Here, Jesus gives instruction on confronting others with their sin - for their good.  And in response to Peter's question of how we deal those who sin against us, Jesus challenges our flesh by calling us to forgive.  

The Lord loves His people.  And as He is the gentle and lowly King, His disciples are to reflect His character and His nature.

In one of the greatest declarations of all time, in the midst of pagan territory, Peter declares, in answer to Jesus' question, "Who do you say that I am," "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God!"  The truth of Peter's statement is profoundly relevant for this life and the life to come. 

The ministry of Jesus extends beyond Israel to the Gentiles.  As we see conflict increasing between Jesus and the Jewish religious rulers, we also see faith increasing and the reach of the Gospel expanding.  

This is a very timely passage for the time in which we live - all passages are that way.  But here, Jesus reminds us that wicked behavior flows from wicked hearts.  There is, indeed, something profoundly wrong with the human heart.  But praise be to God, He has provided the cure!  Jesus washes dirty hearts!  

In these three miracles by the sea, the feeding of the 5000, Jesus walking on water, and the healing in Gennasaret, the evidence of who Jesus is, is becoming all the more clear.  Even the often doubting disciples proclaim, "Truly you are the Son of God."  The Son of God provides for His sheep, has power over creation, and He heals the sick.

There are two episodes here in this passage showing different responses to Jesus and His ministry.  One from his hometown of Nazareth - "He Just Can't Be, We Know Him."  And the other one from Herod, "He Must Be John the Baptist Risen from the Dead."

In these parables Jesus teaches the disciples and us the inestimable value of the kingdom of God.